15th Nov 2024 to 31st Dec 2024
Wrap up warm and head out after-dark to one of many colourful Christmas light events in South East England. Wander through dazzling light tunnels and colourful woodlands, marvel at exquisitely dressed Christmas trees and bespoke light installations, be amazed by animated light projections and stunning lantern festivals, all brightening up the long winter nights. These enchanting displays will ignite your holiday spirit, bring festive cheer and are a fantastic way to celebrate this special time of the year.
Why not catch up with family and friends at one of the free local festive light-switch on's that will be gracing our towns and villages in the lead up to Christmas Day. With twinkling fairy lights, tasty treats, Christmas carols and late-night shopping, these events are a great excuse to get together and start the festive season as you mean to go on.
Our featured illuminations showcase some of the best festive lights trail throughout South East England in starting date order. Don't forget to scroll to the bottom of the page to find many more across the destination and to explore the seasonal light switch-on events.
Take a look below for a full list of Christmas Light Trails and illumination events happening across South East England this winter, with many starting in early November and running until January 2025, giving you plenty of time to head out and enjoy a sparkling-Christmas whether you live here, are on holiday or visiting friends and family over the festive season.
Number of results: 53
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Christmas
Riseley, Reading
Landing at Wellington Country Park this winter. Prepare to be captivated by the magic of Wellington Illuminova as you step into a world where imagination knows no bounds.
Christmas
Gosport
Lots to see and do, with entertainment throughout the day presented by Hampshire Cultural Trust.
Christmas
Battle
See Battle Abbey in a whole new light this festive season.
Christmas
NEWPORT
The popular Christmas Lights Tour is back this December and we cannot wait to welcome you on board! Get wrapped up ready for a unique festive experience for all the family aboard an open top bus. We have added in extra dates due to demand and hope…
Christmas
Reading
Wrap up the year with an evening of lights and lanterns in the museum garden.
Christmas
Haywards Heath
Bringing together some fantastic Christmas shopping opportunities mixed with a fun-filled afternoon of family entertainment at this year's Christmas Light switch-on event in Haywards Heath.
Christmas
Deal
Start your Christmas celebrations with a visit to the family-friendly Deal Annual Christmas Lights Switch On.
Head along to Deal town centre on Saturday 25th November, from 4.30pm including music, a visit from Father Christmas and ends with the…
Shopping
Rye
See the Christmas tree light switch on and start your Christmas shopping in Rye.
Christmas
Haywards Heath
Sussex's award-winning lantern trail offers unforgettable "wow moments" for the whole family with a new route, exclusive art installations, and a magical Christmas Eve date.
Discover an immersive, interactive trail of hand-crafted lantern displays…
Christmas
Maidenhead
Bustling Festive Market with a fabulous selection of stalls, a bar and street food as well as children’s funfair rides. Live entertainment followed by Christmas Lights switch-on and firework display.
Community
Winchester
Fun for all the family, Winchester Cathedral's popular Winter event returns and everyone is welcome to join in.
The annual lantern parade returns to Winchester Cathedral, and this year the theme is Christmas Creatures.
Join Winchester Cathedral in…
Shopping
Eastbourne
See Eastbourne's Christmas lights and giant interactive LED tree switch on with late night shopping, entertainment and market.
Christmas lights to be turned on at 6pm.
Christmas
Gravesend
Get into the festive spirit at the Gravesend Christmas Light Switch on and enjoy music from Artful Dodger.
Festive entertainment begins across the town centre from midday including an Arctic Adventure children’s show, Giant Gingerbread man,…
Christmas
Aylesbury
This Christmas at Waddesdon, be spirited away to a magical wonderland as classic tales come to life with new decorations in the house and dazzling new light displays outside enchant and delight.
Christmas
Faringdon
Its the Farringdon Christmas Light Switch on Saturday 30th November
With a Christmas market, music around the Christmas tree, a Santa Grotto, festive light switch on at 5pm, and craft activities in the Corn Exchange
Family
Battle
Santa's Amazing Parade starts the event, heading down the High Street at 1.45pm with Santa's Sleigh, elves, reindeer and friends
Special Events
Brighton
Burning the Clocks is a unique community event held on the 21st of December, created by Same Sky, that brings the whole city of Brighton together to mark the shortest day of the year. Local people make lantern and parade through the city, they pass…
Christmas
Edenbridge
This Christmas, spend quality time with loved ones and enjoy a seasonal experience that celebrates the past 10 years of festive joy at Hever Castle.
Immerse yourself in a magical Christmas in the Castle, witness enchanting reimaginations of classic…
Christmas
Deal
Join the Georgian gentlemen for a weekend of festive fun as they prepare for Christmas at Walmer Castle. Enjoy a delightful array of activities and entertainment this holiday season!
Free Event
Ramsgate
Enjoy some Christmas Illuminations with a difference at the Ramsgate Royal Harbour. Pop along and enjoy the festive lights dressed on many of the boats in the harbour during December, and why not stop for dinner at one of the harbour restaurants and…
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